Diakonia – Serving With Authority

“When speaking of the diaconate, I like to stay with the Greek word diakonia rather than the common translation of “ministry” or “service,” because it has a richer meaning. The noun form, diakonos, has been linked with konis (dust), suggesting someone who works close to the ground, not as a doormat, but as one whose authority comes from being in touch with what is basic and earthy, who reminds us of the dust of which we are made.”